London is considered the safest city in the United Kingdom, welcoming thousands of global students every year. Apart from this, there are more than a few of the best areas to live in London, boasting jaw-dropping facilities, such as proximity to colleges and more.
In addition to this, these places offer cosy housing options that help you experience the best student life, considering your budget. Thus, in this guide, you are going to delve into the best 5 areas with their key qualities, followed by the top aspects to keep in mind while securing the right one. Read on!
Top Areas to Live in London for Students
1. Marylebone
Famous for a calm & peaceful setting and reflecting a village-like feel instead of being central, it is one of the best areas to live in London, offering a safe environment. Moreover, it includes upscale facilities, such as parks and
more, letting you get the green exposure. Besides, it is near colleges like London Business School and UCL, allowing less travel time and costs.
● Situated in: – Central London, in the middle of Oxford Street and Regent’s Park
● Key Points: – Dining, Shopping, Architecture
● Recognised for: – High-class Shopping, Fashion and Style, and Fine Dining
● Places to Explore: – Wallace Collection, Marylebone High Street, Sherlock Holmes Museum
2. Shoreditch
It is an active student hub that attracts everyone, including global learners and young experts. Moreover, within its vibrant ambience, it offers reliable transport links and easy college access. Although famous for its nightlife, it is a very safe area with a diverse community.
● Situated in: – London Borough of Hackney, North of the City of London
● Key Points: – Nightlife, Food and Drink, Street Art, Market
● Recognised for: – Hipster Culture, and Creative Scenes
● Places to Explore: – Street Art Scene at Brick Lane, Brick Lane Market
3. King’s Cross
This area is one of the best areas to live in London for everyone, which is rapidly developing. Moreover, its transportation links are strong, including international travel. Apart from this quality, it boasts several trendy cafes, cultural venues, stores, parks, and various growing properties. Thus, helping students and professionals to get the best housing in town.
● Situated in: – Central London in the London Borough of Camden
● Key Points: – King’s Cross Station, Granary Square, British Library, and distinct Student Accommodation
● Recognised for: – Tourist Attractions, Developing Culture, Thriving Club Scene
● Places to Explore: – British Library, Coal Drops Yard, Regent’s Canal
4. Notting Hill
This place is well-known for its scenic streets and dynamic cultural heritage with a blend of excitement and elegance. In addition to this, it is a very safe and comfortable area for students with a lot of low crime rate, boasting appealing markets, chic cafes, shops, and more.
Also, it has a lot of vibrant student accommodation offering quality facilities without making a dent in your pockets.
● Situated in: – West London, in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea
● Key Points: – Road Market, Colourful Houses, Notting Hill Carnival
● Recognised for: – Art and Culture, Shopping, Food Scene
● Places to Explore: – Notting Hill Bookshop, and Portobello Road Market
5. Soho
Soho stands as an entertaining social hub, which is located in the middle of London’s West End. Moreover, it is best for global learners due to its rich cultural heritage and comparatively low crime rates. Additionally, it has several bars, theatres, cafes, and other entertainment options, making it quite worthy for everyone.
● Situated in: – West End of London
● Key Points: – Entertainment District, Shopping, and Diverse Architecture
● Recognised for: – Restaurants, Nightclubs, Theatres, and Pubs
● Places to Explore: – Prince Edward Theatre, Carnaby Street, and Soho Square
Considerations to Choose the Right Place for Students
While securing the best student accommodation in London, you must keep a few considerations in mind. These include proximity to college, budget, facilities, support services, and many more. Analysing some of the best areas to live in London and comparing living costs helps you select the right option. Below are several aspects that you must not overlook!
Proximity to Colleges
Staying in areas that are close to your college reduces your travel time and costs. Moreover, it allows you to attend everything happening in your college, such as extra classes, events, and others. Besides, it allows you to participate in extracurricular and academic activities.
Budget
Managing finances stands to be important for students, and thus, securing cheap options is the right thing to do. Moreover, utilities, Wifi, rent, and many others must align with your budgeting options to avoid debt and hassle throughout the semester.
Safety and Security
Considering safety for not only international students but for everyone is crucial while probing the best housing area in London. For this, you must look for areas that are well light-up, have secure entry, and boast a low rate of crimes. Proximity to police or campus security works as a cherry on top, mainly for those living alone. A more secure setting allows you to have a formative atmosphere and adds to your scholastic results.
Community and Amenities
There’s always a supportive and communal setting contributing to students’ success. So, consider securing a place in a safe and supportive area, which includes study spots and gyms. Also, look for friendly roommates who help you with everything and do not let you feel isolated. As a result, not only does student life become fascinating, but you also become more productive and vibrant.
Support Services
As a global student in London, you must secure a place with easy access to mental health, career services, and academic tutoring. It is because it benefits them in many ways, such as overcoming hardships. Thus, on-site management, emergency contacts, and proper maintenance stand as crucial aspects to such services that are improving quality of life and allow them to focus on studies.
Contract Terms
You must pick an area that provides clear and student-friendly lease terms. It means clear policies, flexible lease lengths, termination rules, subletting options, deposit policies, and others. Besides, be clear about hidden fees,
strict rules, and regulations. Apart from all of these, you must be aware whether the agreement suits your schedule and preferences, or not.
Closing Thoughts
To sum up, securing the right housing can boost your student experience in London. Also, by considering various aspects, such as community support, proximity to college, safety, and budget, international students can make
well-informed decisions about the best areas to live in London. These include Shoreditch, Marylebone, Notting Hill, Soho, and King’s Cross, which are best in offering comfort, accessibility, and an active culture. Apart from this, if you want to make your student life rewarding, you must contact GraddingHomes (a reliable student accommodation platform) to secure the best living area in London, UK.
